How to get UK TV signal back in French home?

Reader Question: We have owned a home in western France for 30 years but recently our Humax satellite TV box has lost all signal. We have replaced several elements but it still is not working. What should we do? 

We presume the issue concerns accessing Freesat, the digital satellite service through which you can access BBC and ITV content. 

There are several things that may be preventing you from receiving a signal on your Humax digibox. 

The LNB (Low Noise Block) – a box at the end of the satellite dish arm – can come in several formats. 

Most modern models are universal and can work with several satellite providers, namely Sky and Freesat, however older boxes are often only compatible with one. 

Your old box may have been causing the issue but although you replaced it, the newly-installed model may not be compatible with your provider. Check it is a universal model, or otherwise compatible with Freesat.

If you replaced your dish yourself, make sure it is correctly set up to receive UK TV signals. It should pick up signals from the Astra 2 group of satellites at 28.2 degrees east. DIY stores sell equipment to help with the positioning, or you can ask a professional to set it up for you.

Alternatively, it may be the box itself that is the issue. You can attempt a factory reset, found via the settings menu. You may be prompted to give a password (if you have not set one up before this is usually 0000). 

Note that doing so will return all your settings to default, but may fix the issue.

If this still does not work, you may need a newer model of Freesat box. New Humax boxes are available from online marketplaces such as Amazon or French home and tech stores, ranging from €25 to well over €150 depending on services offered. 

Otherwise you could convert from Freesat – offered by the BBC and ITV – to a Sky model. If you do this, ensure the LNB is universal so it is compatible with current equipment.